You didn’t move to the mountains because you hate winter. Both Banff and Canmore come alive during the colder months with events.
You may be ready to soak up the sun, but is your deck up to the challenge?
With warmer weather, people are starting to think about decks and patios. After a long winter of not being used, some things may need maintenance for a safe and enjoyable atmosphere in the coming months. Whether you’re selling your home, or looking to buy a new one, you’ll want to give the deck a thorough inspection to make sure it won’t cause problems down the road.
Here are five things you can do to make sure your deck or patio looks great, lasts longer and keeps everyone safe.
Resist Rot
Rotten boards, soft spots in vinyl, wobbly railings, and uneven or out of level stairs can all be signs of bigger problems beneath the surface. If you notice any of these issues on your deck or patio, it’s time to call a professional. Structural rebuilds of decks can be costly, so the sooner you call, the quicker you can avoid any further damage to the structure below. Look for rot on top and get under the deck to make sure the joists are solid.
Master the Stairs
Stairs and railings are the most important safety aspect of any deck or patio. Stairs should be sturdy and have a railing that’s comfortable to grasp. Railings should be tight and shouldn’t have any opening larger than four inches. If you notice any issues, such as a wobbly railing or loose or rotting boards on your stairs, talk to a professional to have the damage assessed.
Break out the Stain
Stained wooden decks should be touched up every year to ensure water can’t penetrate the surface and cause damage to the wood in the future. Cedar naturally withstands water damage better than spruce, pine or fir, but will still rot over time if left untreated and wet. Give your deck a good sanding and apply a fresh coat of stain as a simple and cost-effective way to spruce up your home before putting it on the market.
Put on the Pressure
Pressure treated decks can become dirty and slippery over time but will often still be structurally sound. When this is the case, pressure washing the deck will bring both the colour and grip back to the surface without undergoing costly rebuilding. Pressure washing early in the spring will ensure your deck is ready to handle the summer sun.
Scrub a Dub
Vinyl decks are very common in the Bow Valley, and they can be seen on many condo units and townhomes. The vinyl surface can become dull and dirty over time. Using dish soap in water and a scrubbing brush will break up tough dirt spots without harming the surface. Combine this scrub with a pressure wash and the vinyl will return to a near new condition.
